STATE DEPARTMENT FOR CORRECTIONAL SERVICES WORKING WITH PARTNERS TO BRIDGE SKILLS GAP

By Nicholas Kigondu

The State Department for Correctional Services is expanding rehabilitation programmes within correctional centres to align with current market demands.

According to Correctional Services Principal Secretary Dr. Salome Beacco, the development that includes exploring collaborations with institutions of higher learning, is meant to equip reformed offenders with requisite skills that will help them once they leave correctional centres.

Speaking during a meeting with KCA University Vice Chancellor Professor Isaiah Wakindiki, the PS said formal and technical training remains one of the key drivers of eliminating poverty which is among the biggest causes of crime in the country.

She said the fact that eleven people under the supervision of the department graduated with a Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of London in November 2024 while a former inmate graduated with a degree in medicine, and several others have already completed diploma and certificate courses in various fields, is a demonstration that formal education is working.

While pledging to explore opportunities for support, Professor Wakindiki undertook to partner with the department in developing a curriculum on courses of various durations, especially on business and technology, to support ongoing rehabilitation efforts.

The two also agreed to explore other areas of support including the possibility of helping Marimanti GK prison develop a model agri-processing facility that will among others enhance food security and offer vocational training for inmates held at the facility.